UP, UP AND AWAY

Located on the eighth floor of Southern Sun Hyde Park, Luce’s glass walls show off the gorgeous hilltop view over Sandton. Pick one of the tables by the windows or eat out on the terrace to make the most of this restaurant’s lofty location. Clean, modern lines rule here, from bold wooden stripes on the floor to the boxy furniture. The tulip pendant lights cast a glow over the sushi bar and the buffet tables, reflecting off the yellow tiles behind the serving counter. Known for its outstanding service, it’s not only the food that will leave you smiling at this unique restaurant.

SIMPLY DELICIOUS

From antipasti to dolci, Luce prepares flavourful food with care. Not merely your typical Italian restaurant, at Luce, east meets west, with the option to sample the most delicious pasta dishes or order a platter of sushi that’s been prepared by the resident chefs. If you’re in the mood for more Japanese, there is miso soup and several other Asian-inspired snacks.

To start, nothing beats the Fritto di Calamari – this tender deep-fried calamari is served with zucchini and mushrooms. Follow that up with the Stinco d’Agnello – slow-cooked lamb shank in a tomato-capsicum and red wine dressing. Round off your meal with the truly magnificent Cioccolatissimo, a soft chocolate soufflé thatis accompanied by a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Of course, an Italian meal is never complete without a glass of wine. Luce offers the full selection of auction wines acquired at the Nedbank Cape Winemakers Guild Auction and the Nederburg Auction. You can order by the glass or ask your waiter to recommend a bottle for the table. But, if vino isn’t to your taste, a premium selection of craft beer is also on offer.

RAISING THE BAR

After dinner, wander over to the hotel’s classy Whiskey & Cigar Bar, designed to meet the tastes of any discerning connoisseur. Relax in one of the plush armchairs and savour a glass of fine malt whiskey, enjoyed with an authentic Cuban cigar.